Last Updated on 2025 年 5 月 27 日 by 総合編集組
Seoul Airports Guide: Incheon vs. Gimpo for Taiwan Travelers
This comprehensive guide compares Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP), tailored for Taiwanese travelers planning a trip to Seoul.
Covering critical aspects such as flight options, transportation, facilities, and seasonal tips, it helps you choose the best airport for your needs, whether you’re a business traveler seeking efficiency or a leisure explorer chasing Seoul’s vibrant culture.
Overview of Incheon and Gimpo Airports
Incheon International Airport (ICN): The Global Hub
Located 48 km west of Seoul in Incheon City, Incheon International Airport is South Korea’s largest and most advanced aviation hub. Situated on Yeongjong and Yongyu Islands, it operates 24/7, making it ideal for late-night or early-morning flights. Since its opening in 2001, ICN has earned global acclaim, securing the “World’s Best Airport Service” title from the Airports Council International (ACI) for 22 consecutive years (2003–2025) and ranking fourth in the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
ICN features two terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) serves airlines like EVA Air, Asiana Airlines, and Scoot, while Terminal 2 (T2), opened in 2018, hosts Korean Air, China Airlines, and others. Both terminals offer extensive amenities, including 24-hour capsule hotels (Darakhyu), free showers, and premium dining. ICN’s free shuttle buses and maglev trainenhance inter-terminal and local connectivity, while the Seoul Station City Terminal allows pre-check-in for select airlines, streamlining departure processes.
Gimpo International Airport (GMP): The City Gateway
Located just 15 km from central Seoul, Gimpo International Airport is the preferred choice for travelers prioritizing proximity to the city. Originally Seoul’s primary airport until 2001, GMP now focuses on domestic flights and short-haul international routes, including Taiwan (Taipei Songshan, Kaohsiung) and Japan (Tokyo Haneda, Osaka Kansai). Its compact international terminal ensures faster immigration, and its direct connection to Lotte Mall Gimpo offers shopping and entertainment options. Unlike ICN, GMP operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, requiring careful planning for late-night arrivals.
Flight Options from Taiwan
Airlines and Routes
Taiwanese travelers can choose from multiple airlines flying to ICN and GMP from Taipei (TPE, TSA), Kaohsiung (KHH), and Taichung (RMQ):
- Full-service carriers: China Airlines (CI) (TPE to ICN T2, TSA/KHH to GMP), EVA Air (BR) (TPE to ICN T1, TSA to GMP), Korean Air (KE), and Asiana Airlines (OZ) offer comprehensive services, including generous baggage allowances and in-flight meals.
- Low-cost carriers (LCCs): Tigerair Taiwan (IT), Jeju Air (7C), T’way Air (TW), and Eastar Jet (ZE) provide budget-friendly options but often limit baggage to 10–15 kg.
Flight durations are similar (2h25m–2h45m), so the choice between ICN and GMP depends on city access and flight schedules. Booking 26 days in advance or traveling in May/November (off-peak seasons) can save up to 3% on fares.
Transportation to Seoul City Center
Incheon Airport (ICN)
- Airport Railroad Express (AREX):
- Express Train: Direct to Seoul Station (43–51 minutes, ~USD 8.50/NT$254). Offers reserved seats, Wi-Fi, and luggage storage.
- All-Stop Train: Stops at Gimpo, Hongdae, and others (59–66 minutes, ~USD 3.50/NT$100). Cost-effective but crowded during peak hours.
- Airport Buses: Connect to Myeongdong, Gangnam, and more (65–95 minutes, ~USD 13/NT$400). Night buses (N6000, N6001) serve late arrivals.
- Taxis: Regular taxis (USD 35–40/NT$1,000–1,200), premium taxis (USD 50/NT$1,500), or international taxis (~USD 70/NT$2,100) offer door-to-door convenience.
Gimpo Airport (GMP)
- AREX: Reaches Hongdae in 15 minutes or Seoul Station in 20 minutes (~USD 1/NT$32). Highly efficient for city-bound travelers.
- Buses: Serve Myeongdong and Dongdaemun (40 minutes, ~USD 5/NT$120).
- Taxis: Regular (USD 15–20/NT$450–600) or international (USD 25/NT$750) taxis are affordable due to GMP’s proximity.
Airport Facilities and Services
Shopping and Dining
- ICN: A shopper’s paradise with Shilla, Lotte, and Hyundai duty-free stores offering luxury goods, K-beauty, and electronics. Dining options range from CJ Foodworld to global chains like Starbucks.
- GMP: Smaller-scale duty-free shops (Lotte, Shilla) focus on Korean brands. Its connection to Lotte Mall provides supermarkets and cinemas.
Lounges and Rest Areas
- ICN: Features Sky Hub Lounge, 24-hour capsule hotels, and free showers, ideal for long layovers.
- GMP: Offers basic lounges and rest areas, better suited for short stays.
Family and Medical Services
- ICN: Equipped with nursing rooms and an Inha University Hospital clinic.
- GMP: Provides stroller rentals and nearby medical facilities like Busan Yuli Hospital.
Practical Tips for Taiwanese Travelers
Currency and Payments
- Exchange a small amount (~NT$2,000) in Taiwan for emergencies.
- Use Seoul’s currency exchange counters (Myeongdong, Hongdae) for better rates.
- Credit cards (e.g., JCB, Line Pay) are widely accepted, offering up to 8% cashback. Opt for KRW transactions to avoid DCC fees.
Seasonal Considerations (May/June)
- May: Mild weather (17.8°C), ideal for light layers and festivals like the Seoul Rose Festival.
- June: Warmer (22.2°C) with a rainy season starting late June. Pack umbrellas and plan indoor activities.
- Air Quality: Monitor PM2.5 levels via apps, especially in June.
Travel Hacks
- Purchase a T-money card for discounted fares and seamless transit.
- Book private transfers (~NT$1,500–3,600) for groups or language support.
- Use apps like Kakao T or k.ride for hassle-free taxi bookings.
Conclusion
Whether you choose Incheon for its global connectivity and 24/7 services or Gimpo for its city proximity, this guide equips Taiwanese travelers with the insights needed for a seamless Seoul adventure. Plan wisely, and let Seoul’s vibrant streets, from Gyeongbokgung to Myeongdong, unfold before you!
